Alisson's hamstring issue leaves him doubtful for the Champions League quarter-final first leg against PSG, while Hugo Ekitike’s knock looks minor. Punters should factor a likely goalkeeper change — increased chance of conceding goals — into markets, favouring PSG or both-teams-to-score options and reassessing clean-sheet and goalkeeper-dependent bets.
Alisson faces race to be fit for PSG after hamstring setback
Arne Slot has played down fears over Hugo Ekitike’s condition but confirmed Alisson Becker will miss the international break as he battles a hamstring problem. The injury rules Alisson out of Brazil’s friendlies and casts doubt over his availability for Liverpool’s crucial Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
Hamstring history complicates fitness timeline
Alisson’s hamstring troubles are not new: he missed the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Galatasaray after feeling an issue in training a fortnight ago. Slot warned the goalkeeper will "definitely be out during the international break," leaving his return uncertain ahead of the tie in Paris.
Ekitike limp deemed minor
Hugo Ekitike was forced off at Brighton inside the opening 10 minutes after a challenge from James Milner, but Slot described the problem as a "dead leg" and suggested Ekitike could be available quickly if required. Mohamed Salah also missed the 2-1 defeat at Brighton, compounding Liverpool’s short-term selection headaches.
Backup options and squad outlook
With an FA Cup quarter-final at Manchester City followed five days later by the Champions League first leg at PSG, Liverpool must weigh their options carefully. Giorgi Mamardashvili remains on standby to deputise in goal if Alisson fails to recover. The squad also continues to cope without long-term absentees Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo and Giovanni Leoni.
What this means for Liverpool’s Champions League hopes
A potential goalkeeper change ahead of a high-stakes tie against PSG increases uncertainty. Liverpool will need tactical clarity and defensive resilience to compensate if Alisson is unavailable, while quick returns from other attacking absences will be crucial to maintaining offensive threat.
Betting and market considerations
Punters should monitor Alisson’s recovery closely. A confirmed absence could nudge markets toward PSG and boost propositions such as both teams to score, total goals over markets, and bets that factor in Liverpool conceding.
Casemiro in fresh Man United 'new contract' claim amid Sandro Tonali 'push' update
Conversely, a last-minute clearance for Alisson would stabilise clean-sheet and Liverpool-favourable markets.
Liverpool Echo
